CVE-2017-15844 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
In all android releases(Android for MSM, Firefox OS for MSM, QRD Android) from CAF using the linux kernel, while processing the function for writing device values into flash, uninitialized memory can be written to flash.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/16/2023
This vulnerability exists in Android-based systems utilizing the Linux kernel from Code Aurora Forum across multiple product lines including MSM devices, Firefox OS for MSM, and QRD Android. The flaw occurs during the process of writing device values to flash storage, where the system fails to properly initialize memory before performing write operations. This represents a classic case of uninitialized memory exposure that can lead to information disclosure and potential system compromise.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper memory management within the flash writing functions of the Linux kernel subsystem. When device values are being written to flash storage, the kernel does not adequately initialize memory buffers before use, potentially allowing residual data from previous operations to be written to flash. This uninitialized memory could contain sensitive information such as cryptographic keys, system credentials, or other confidential data that was previously stored in memory locations. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the kernel level where memory management occurs, making it difficult to detect and prevent through standard application-level security measures.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-15844 extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it could enable attackers to extract sensitive data from device memory and potentially use this information to compromise system integrity. This vulnerability affects a broad range of Android devices and embedded systems that rely on the Linux kernel for flash management operations, making it a significant concern for device manufacturers and security professionals. The exposure of uninitialized memory to flash storage creates opportunities for adversaries to reconstruct sensitive information that should not be persistently stored on the device.
This vulnerability aligns with CWE-457: Use of Uninitialized Variable and can be categorized under ATT&CK technique T1552.001: Unsecured Credentials, as it potentially exposes sensitive information through improper memory handling. The attack surface is particularly wide given that it affects multiple Android product lines and kernel implementations from Code Aurora Forum. Mitigation strategies should include proper memory initialization routines before flash write operations, implementation of secure memory management practices, and regular kernel updates to address the uninitialized memory exposure. Device manufacturers should also consider implementing memory sanitization techniques and thorough testing of flash write operations to prevent residual data leakage. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper memory management in kernel-level operations and highlights the need for comprehensive security testing of low-level system functions that handle sensitive data operations.